DIY Mushroom Terrariums: Step-by-Step Tutorial

A beautiful mushroom terrarium in a glass container, showcasing various colorful mushrooms growing in a miniature forest-like environment

Create your own enchanting miniature world with these self-contained mushroom ecosystems. Perfect for adding a touch of whimsy and natural beauty to your home decor, these terrariums are not only stunning but also easy to maintain.

Materials You'll Need:

  • Glass container (jar, bowl, or terrarium vessel)
  • Mushroom growing kit or spores
  • Sterilized substrate (wood chips, sawdust, or specialized mushroom substrate)
  • Activated charcoal
  • Small pebbles or gravel
  • Moss (optional, for decoration)
  • Miniature figurines or decorations (optional)
  • Spray bottle for misting

Step-by-Step Guide:

  1. Prepare Your Container

    Clean your glass container thoroughly and dry it completely. This ensures a sterile environment for your mushrooms to grow.

  2. Create Drainage Layer

    Add a layer of small pebbles or gravel at the bottom of your container, about 1-2 inches deep. This helps with drainage and prevents water from pooling.

  3. Add Activated Charcoal

    Sprinkle a thin layer of activated charcoal over the pebbles. This helps filter the water and keeps the terrarium fresh.

  4. Prepare the Substrate

    Mix your mushroom spores or growing kit with the sterilized substrate according to the instructions provided with your mushroom variety.

  5. Add Substrate to Container

    Carefully add the substrate mixture to your container, creating a layer about 2-3 inches deep. Gently pat it down to create a firm base.

  6. Decorate Your Terrarium

    Add moss, miniature figurines, or other decorations to create a whimsical forest scene. Be creative, but avoid overcrowding to allow room for mushroom growth.

  7. Mist and Seal

    Lightly mist the surface of your terrarium with water. If your container has a lid, close it to create a humid environment.

  8. Place and Monitor

    Position your terrarium in a spot with indirect light and stable temperature. Monitor daily, misting as needed to maintain humidity.

Care Tips for Your Mushroom Terrarium:

  • Keep your terrarium out of direct sunlight to prevent overheating.
  • Maintain high humidity by misting regularly or keeping the lid partially closed.
  • Avoid overwatering – the substrate should be moist but not waterlogged.
  • Once mushrooms appear, harvest them promptly to encourage new growth.
  • Clean any dead material to prevent mold growth.

With proper care, your DIY mushroom terrarium will provide a fascinating display of fungal life, adding a unique touch of nature to your indoor plant collection. Happy growing!

A collection of different mushroom terrariums showcasing various designs and mushroom species, arranged on a wooden shelf with soft, natural lighting